Why Other Cable Networks Should Be Following HBO’s Lead

Myeisha Essex is in love with all things pop culture, thanks in large part to her hometown. This Los Angeles native has an encyclopedic knowledge of the entertainment industry and she loves a good trivia game. She received her bachelor’s degree in journalism and media studies from Bennett College for Women and her master's from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. Her work can be found in Sister 2 Sister, Harlem World Magazine, Clutch and on Essence.com. When she's not keeping up with the news or learning Beyonce's latest dance moves, she enjoys watching stand-up comedy on YouTube! Follow her on Instagram @more_about_me

In November, the network listened to our lack-of-diversity complaints and introduced Danielle Brooks as the first Black cast member on “Girls.” In November, Oprah teamed up with cable powerhouse to explore the world of “Moody B**ches.” Last month, one of our favorite web series, Black & Sexy TV’s “The Couple,” landed a development deal, and now the network is launching a new program to help up-and-coming filmmakers get their feet in the door.

According to reports, HBO recently launched a new four-week program called HBOAccess to help a diverse group of emerging filmmakers with “project development, master classes and mentoring opportunities.”

“In the great tradition of HBO, we have created HBOAccess to find the next generation of new and powerful voices,” said Michael Lombardo, president of HBO Programming. “We are thrilled to present this opportunity to filmmakers who might not otherwise find their way through our doors. I believe this undertaking will serve as a valuable experience not only for those who are chosen to participate, but for us at HBO as well.”

The winners will be given a budget to create short-form content for HBO. The network began accepting applications yesterday. Get all the details here!

As Shonda Rhimes detailed in her Diversity Award acceptance speech at the Directors Guild of America Awards last week, this is “something that we should all be doing.”

“Diversity is not an effort or an initiative,” she explained. “Don’t have summits or meetings. Just start hiring people!”